Tapestry of Faith: Love Will Guide Us: A Program for Grades 2-3 that Applies the Wisdom of the Six Sources to the Big Questions

Introduction

The good we secure for ourselves is precarious and uncertain until it is secured for all of us and incorporated into our common life. — Jane Addams, American social activist and 1931 Nobel Peace Prize recipient

The session focuses on the fourth Source of Unitarian Universalism, expressed in children's language as "Jewish and Christian teachings which tell us to love all others as we love ourselves." Jesus called on his followers to live in service to those in need; this service strengthens community. Children hear a story of Jesus' life and explore the concept of community. Alternate Activity 3 offers an introduction to reading the Bible.

Goals

This session will:

  • Introduce the fourth Source of Unitarian Universalism, "Jewish and Christian teachings which tell us to love all other as we love ourselves"
  • Introduce Jesus' teachings drawn from Christian scripture
  • Explore the meaning of community, the importance of community in our lives, and the role of love in community.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

  • Identify "Jewish and Christian teachings which tell us to love all other as we love ourselves" as the fourth Source of Unitarian Universalism
  • Recognize Hebrew and Christian scripture (the Bible) as texts related to the fourth Source
  • Learn about the life of Jesus and Jesus' parables
  • Identify communities to which they belong; express observations about what community means to them
  • Optional: Interact with Christian scriptural text.